The best bars & nightlife in Madison

3 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 3 places · showing the latest additions first

TailGators Bar & Grill

Nightlife

TailGators Bar & Grill is Madison’s bar on the Hilltop with karaoke Friday and Saturday night, a Sunday pool tournament, Monday Singo, plus…

490 W State St

“TailGators Bar & Grill is Madison’s bar on the Hilltop with karaoke Friday and Saturday night, a Sunday pool tournament, Monday Singo, plus Thursday Ladies Night and the Tailgators Arcade for when your inner kid wants a turn. Perfect for rallying friends when no one can agree on plans.”

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Lanthier Winery

Nightlife

Whether you want a no-snob afternoon close to home, Lanthier Winery pours award-winning wines and handcrafted spirits in a cozy cellar…

123 Mill St

“Whether you want a no-snob afternoon close to home, Lanthier Winery pours award-winning wines and handcrafted spirits in a cozy cellar tasting room, then sends you into French country gardens and the Loft Gallery to wander, chat, and maybe stumble into a workshop or quirky seasonal celebration.”

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Boneyard Grill

Nightlife

Boneyard Grill does thin, crunchy, square-cut pies right on the grill with fresh toppings, alongside craveable apps like stuffed jalapeños…

513 Clifty Dr

“Boneyard Grill does thin, crunchy, square-cut pies right on the grill with fresh toppings, alongside craveable apps like stuffed jalapeños with bacon, pulled pork nachos and cheese curds. Great on those nights when you want wings, bold sauces and zero fuss.”

From the Madison newsletter, October 13, 2026

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